What is the origin of this religion? When/How/Why did it start?
The division between Shia and Sunni dates back to the death of the Prophet Muhammad, and the question of who was to take over the leadership of the Muslim nation. Sunni Muslims agree with the position taken by many of the Prophet's companions, that the new leader should be elected from among those capable of the job. This is what was done, and the Prophet Muhammad's close friend and advisor, Abu Bakr, became the first Caliph of the Islamic nation. The word "Sunni" in Arabic comes from a word meaning "one who follows the traditions of the Prophet."
On the other hand, some Muslims, the Shia, share the belief that leadership should have stayed within the Prophet's own family, among those specifically appointed by him, or among Imams appointed by God Himself.
What are the main rituals or practices of this religion?
Some of the main rituals are frequent praying, Ramadan (a fasting ritual) and eid (a celebration at the end of Ramadan)
What are the main texts associated with this religion?quran, It is the holy book, sort of like a bible but for the sunni religion. How many people follow this religion in Australia and the World?In Australia 3% of people follow it, in the world about 16% people follow it. How can you be a good/devout follower of this religion?Don't eat pork, pray everyday.What rewards and punishments are associated with the faith?Rewards:The rewards attained from this religion are all internal. One tries to get satisfaction, happiness and comfort while following Islam.Punishments: You get whipped.List any important places associated with this religion.
The Kaaba, in Mecca Saudi Arabia, is the center of Islam. Muslims from all over the world gather there to pray in unity. There's probs more though. Are there any important symbols associated with this religion? What are they?Not that I know of. Upload any images that might have some significance in this religion. Explain their importance.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Madina_Haram_at_evening_.jpg
What is the origin of this religion? When/How/Why did it start?
The division between Shia and Sunni dates back to the death of the Prophet Muhammad, and the question of who was to take over the leadership of the Muslim nation. Sunni Muslims agree with the position taken by many of the Prophet's companions, that the new leader should be elected from among those capable of the job. This is what was done, and the Prophet Muhammad's close friend and advisor, Abu Bakr, became the first Caliph of the Islamic nation. The word "Sunni" in Arabic comes from a word meaning "one who follows the traditions of the Prophet."On the other hand, some Muslims, the Shia, share the belief that leadership should have stayed within the Prophet's own family, among those specifically appointed by him, or among Imams appointed by God Himself.
What are the main rituals or practices of this religion?
Some of the main rituals are frequent praying, Ramadan (a fasting ritual) and eid (a celebration at the end of Ramadan)What are the main texts associated with this religion?quran, It is the holy book, sort of like a bible but for the sunni religion.
How many people follow this religion in Australia and the World?In Australia 3% of people follow it, in the world about 16% people follow it.
How can you be a good/devout follower of this religion?Don't eat pork, pray everyday.What rewards and punishments are associated with the faith?Rewards:The rewards attained from this religion are all internal. One tries to get satisfaction, happiness and comfort while following Islam.Punishments: You get whipped.List any important places associated with this religion.
The Kaaba, in Mecca Saudi Arabia, is the center of Islam. Muslims from all over the world gather there to pray in unity. There's probs more though.
Are there any important symbols associated with this religion? What are they?Not that I know of. Upload any images that might have some significance in this religion. Explain their importance.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Madina_Haram_at_evening_.jpg